Digital Skills for Older Adults: Teaching Technology in Public Libraries

Does your library offer technology assistance to older adults? Do you teach computer classes for seniors? Are patrons bringing in tablets and other devices that have been given to them by grandchildren? Recent research from the Pew Institute shows that only 59% of older adults go online. New technologies can be difficult to learn, and older adults may not understand the benefits of using technology. But libraries can help older adults adopt technology in meaningful ways for communication, lifelong learning, and entertainment.

Join us for this free webinar to learn how your library can help older adults learn to use new technologies. You will hear from the St. Mary's County Library (Maryland), which is providing older adults with effective training and technology assistance. This library will share examples of successful programming, as well as tips for working with older adults. You will also learn about TechBoomers, a free website that offers technology training tutorials developed specifically for older adults. Come hear examples of how this site is being used by libraries to supplement programs and services, and to help increase staff’s confidence in being able to help patrons.